Diego Mateo came to North Central College hoping to serve students in communities needing support for their schools. He majored in music education and found support through the challenges he faced as a first-generation, Latinx student. His rich, varied academic experience culminated with winning a national championship in forensics and serving as the student speaker at Commencement in 2023.

North Central College music students led by Alex Hageman created a moving performance of the College's alma mater for the virtual commencement webcast.

The Golden Apple Scholars of Illinois Program seeks to prepare college students for careers in teaching, particularly in high-need schools, leading naturally to an association with North Central College.